The vast majority of fire deaths in North America happen at home. It’s our responsibility as leaders to bring attention to this problem and its solution.
For more than 100 years, the IAFC has played a key role in reducing the impact of fire on our communities. We have worked to make sure those in our communities have working smoke alarms in their homes and that model building codes require residential sprinklers in new home construction, and we advocated for strong community risk reduction initiatives. These efforts have saved lives and reduced injuries.
The NFPA Fire Sprinkler Initiative, the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition and the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition-Canada will celebrate Home Fire Sprinkler Week May 19-25, with a national media event on Wednesday, May 22.
In 2018, we hosted the inaugural Home Fire Sprinkler Day. Again this year, we are encouraging fire-sprinkler advocates across North America to unite and host events promoting home fire sprinklers.
During the week, raise awareness in your community about this life-saving technology and break down the myths and legislative barriers to its use. The NFPA has great information on its Fire Sprinkler Initiative webpage. You can also find ideas for activities and event resources and log your event on the NFPA’s Home Fire Sprinkler Week webpage. Show the positive impact Home Fire Sprinkler Week has around North America.
Also note that May is Building Safety Month. This international campaign raises awareness about building safety and reinforces the need for the adoption of modern, regularly-updated building codes. It helps individuals, families and businesses understand what it takes to create safe and sustainable structures.
This month, let’s step up our outreach game in the communities we serve.
Fire Chief Dan Eggleston
President and Chairman of the Board
Dan Eggleston, EFO, CFO, CEMSO, is the IAFC’s president and chairman of the board. He’s the fire rescue chief of the Albemarle County (Virginia) Department of Fire Rescue.